DNA Test - Candler, NC

DNA Tests in Candler NC

The Importance of Establishing Paternity in Candler, NC

When an unmarried Candler mother has a child, only she will possess legal parental rights. This is because the state of North Carolina can't make any assumptions over paternity without a legal marriage. For an unmarried Candler, NC father to receive rights over the recently born child, it's recommended he establishes paternity with the mother as soon as possible.

Establishing paternity officially declares the child's father, allowing his name to be placed on the birth certificate. Likewise, by establishing paternity, both parents support the wellbeing of the child as this provides him or her with benefits from both parents, including inheritance rights, social security, and medical insurance.

How to Establish Paternity in Candler, NC

In the state of North Carolina, two unmarried parents are offered two ways of establishing legal paternity. As long as there is full confidence in a child's paternity and both parents are willing to do so, the simplest of establishment processes is to complete a Voluntary Affidavit of Parentage. This is a legally binding document with the state of North Carolina that declares the child's biological and legal father. The form can be completed at the hospital following the child's birth or through a Buncombe County Child Support office.

Unfortunately, not always will a parent be willing to establish paternity, making the process difficult for either mother or father. In these instances, it's best for a parent to file a petition to establish paternity through Buncombe County Family Court. This process will typically require the use of DNA testing to correctly determine the child's father. If the courts successfully identify the child's father, then paternity can be established. This opens the door for a parent to request child support services as well.

Navigating a Difficult Paternity Establishment Process in Candler, NC

To establish paternity or enforce child support obligations in North Carolina, a father must establish paternity with a child's mother first. But what happens when a noncustodial parent cannot be located? In the state of North Carolina, local child support services can provide locating services to help locate a missing parent.

Using information including social security, employer, and vehicle information, a request will be inputted into a database in an effort to locate the individual. If successful, then a court summons can be issued requesting that the parent completes DNA testing and establishes legal paternity.